Overview
Astragalus cicer L., commonly known as Chickpea Milkvetch or Cicer Milk Vetch, is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the legume family, Fabaceae. The plant is native to the Mediterranean and the Middle East regions of the world.
Description
Astragalus cicer L. typically grows up to 50 cm in height and has a sprawling nature. The leaves are composed of 10-14 leaflets and are bluish-green to grayish-green in color. The flowers are pea-like, pink, and white in color. The seed pods are densely hairy and contain numerous small seeds.
Uses
Astragalus cicer L. has been used traditionally in herbal medicine for different purposes. The plant has been used to boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, and boost energy levels. The plant has been used in treating coughs, sore throat, fever, and respiratory infections. It has also been used to treat digestive issues such as diarrhea.
In contemporary times, Astragalus cicer L. is used in the food industry as a natural thickener and to add flavor to different dishes. The plant is also used as a forage for livestock and as a cover crop to improve soil fertility.
Cultivation
Astragalus cicer L. thrives in arid and semiarid regions and can withstand high temperatures and drought. The plant grows well in well-drained soils and can be propagated via seeds. The plants can be grown as an ornamental plant as well as for its medicinal and culinary uses.
Light Requirements
Astragalus cicer L. is a plant that grows best in full sun, which means that it requires at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day. This plant cannot tolerate shady areas and won't grow well in low light conditions. It is therefore essential to ensure that there is ample sunlight in the location where it is grown.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature for the growth of Astragalus cicer L. is between 15°C and 25°C. The plant can still grow in a temperature range of 10°C to 30°C, but it will not grow as well as it would in the optimal temperature range. The plant can also withstand some frost, but it is not frost-tolerant. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the temperature in the growing area does not fall below freezing.
Soil Requirements
Astragalus cicer L. grows best in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH between 6 and 7. The soil should also be well aerated to ensure that there is sufficient oxygen for the roots to grow. The plant prefers sandy soils with good drainage and does not do well in heavy clay soils. Additionally, the soil should be moist but not waterlogged, as the plant is susceptible to root rot in excessively wet soils.
Cultivation Methods of Astragalus cicer L.
Astragalus cicer L., also known as Chickpea Milkvetch, is a herbaceous plant that needs full sunlight and well-drained soil to grow. It can tolerate dry to slightly damp soil. The best time to sow the seeds is during the early spring or fall, and the spacing required is three inches apart with a depth of one inch.
For cultivating this plant, it is advisable to add organic matter to the soil and keep it weed-free. Avoid planting it in areas where there is standing water, as the plants can become waterlogged and die.
Watering Needs of Astragalus cicer L.
Astragalus cicer L. requires moderate watering during its growth period. Over-watering can lead to waterlogging, root rot, and the death of the plant. It is best to water the plant in the early morning, ensuring that the water reaches deeply and uniformly.
It is important to monitor the soil moisture levels regularly and maintain a consistent moisture level without allowing the soil to become too dry or too wet.
Fertilization of Astragalus cicer L.
Astragalus cicer L. is a leguminous plant; hence, it can fix nitrogen from the air with the help of symbiotic bacteria present in its roots. Additional fertilization is not necessary; however, a balanced fertilizer with equal proportions of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be applied in the early spring to promote healthy growth.
The amount of fertilizer applied depends on the soil type and the quality of organic matter added to the soil.
Pruning of Astragalus cicer L.
Pruning is not necessary for Astragalus cicer L., as it is a low maintenance plant that does not require shaping or trimming. However, removing the dead or damaged branches and leaves can help promote healthy growth and prevent the spread of diseases.
It is advisable to prune the plant during dormancy or after the flowering period to encourage new growth and to maintain its shape.
Propagation of Astragalus cicer L.
Astragalus cicer is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is commonly known as Burnet Milk Vetch or Chickpea Milk Vetch. This plant can be propagated through various methods, including seed propagation, stem cuttings, and division.
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Astragalus cicer is through seed propagation. The seeds of Astragalus cicer should be planted in the spring, and the soil should be well-draining and moist. The seeds should be planted ¼ inch deep in the soil and spaced about 6 inches apart. The seeds will typically germinate in 2-3 weeks.
After germination, the seedlings should be watered regularly, but care should be taken not to overwater. Once the seedlings have reached a height of about 4 inches, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Stem Cuttings
Another method of propagating Astragalus cicer is through stem cuttings. The best time to take stem cuttings is in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. The stem cuttings should be taken from healthy and disease-free plants.
The stem cuttings should be about 4-6 inches long and should be taken from the base of the plant. The lower leaves should be removed, and the stem should be dipped in rooting hormone to encourage rooting. The stem cuttings should then be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until rooting occurs.
Division
Astragalus cicer can also be propagated through division. This method involves dividing the plant into smaller sections and replanting them. The best time to divide Astragalus cicer is in the spring or fall when the plant is semi-dormant.
The plant should be carefully dug up, and the root ball should be divided into sections, ensuring that each section has roots and foliage. The sections should be replanted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until new growth appears.
Overall, Astragalus cicer is a relatively easy plant to propagate, and each method can be successful with proper care and preparation.
Disease and Pest Management for Astragalus cicer L.
Astragalus cicer L., also known as Chickpea milkvetch, is a dicot plant that often serves as forage for livestock. However, like other plants, it is prone to diseases and pests. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect the plant and how you can manage them:
Common Diseases
Anthracnose: This disease is caused by a fungus and can appear as small, circular spots on the leaves. These spots will darken and spread, causing defoliation and potentially killing the plant.
Management: To manage anthracnose, use fungicides as a preventative measure. Be sure to use a product specifically designed for anthracnose and follow the instructions carefully.
Rust: Rust appears as yellowish-orange spots on leaves and stems. The fungus causing rust will grow and spread, causing the plant to become weak and potentially die.
Management: Rust can be managed by removing and destroying infected plant material and using fungicides as a preventative measure.
Common Pests
Cutworms: Cutworms are caterpillars that cut through the stem of the plant, causing it to fall over and die.
Management: To manage cutworms, use physical barriers such as collars around the base of the plant. You can also use insecticides, but be sure to choose a product that is safe for livestock grazing.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause significant damage to the plant by sucking out sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and fall off.
Management: To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also introduce predatory mites to the area to help control their population.
By being aware of common diseases and pests that may affect Astragalus cicer L., and taking preventative measures, you can ensure the health and productivity of your plants for forage.
